[Histonet] Cochlea frozen section difficulty and a publication that may help

[Gayle Callis]

You may find this publication the answer to your problems. 

Brain Research Protocols
Volume 6, Issue 3, February 2001, Pages 159-166

Cryoembedding and sectioning of cochleas for immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization 
Donna S. Whitlon, Renee Szakaly, Mary A. Greiner

Abstract

Current emphasis on biochemical and molecular aspects of cochlear anatomy underscores the necessity for high quality cryostat sections of the inner ear. The large volume of fluid space within the cochlea makes cryoembedding and sectioning of the organ more problematic than that of other, more homogeneous tissues. Our method for cryoembedding of cochleas for immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization uses slow infiltration with increasing concentrations of sucrose followed by degassed embedding medium before final orientation and freezing. This method permits high quality cryosections to be cut which preserve overall structure and cellular resolution.

Author Keywords: Cryosections; Cochlea; Immunocytochemistry; In situ hybridization; Hair cell; Mouse

Neuroscience classification codes: Cellular and molecular biology, Staining, tracing, and imaging techniques

Good luck,

Gayle M. Callis

HTL/HT/MT(ASCP)